By Ekpenyong Emmanuel
Speaking at a consultative meeting in Abuja, INEC’s Director of Litigation and Prosecution, Tanimu Muhammed, emphasized the need for legislation that criminalizes vote-buying and puts preventive measures in place .
Muhammed suggested that individuals should not be allowed to carry more than ₦50,000 within polling areas, as unrestricted cash circulation has fueled vote-buying and compromised the integrity of elections.
He stated, “Vote-buying remains one of the biggest threats to credible elections in Nigeria. We need legislation that not only criminalizes this practice but also puts preventive measures in place.”
INEC also reiterated its demand for the establishment of an Electoral Offenses Commission, arguing that the electoral body lacks the capacity to effectively prosecute offenders.
Muhammed added, “INEC is doing its best to handle prosecutions, but we need a dedicated institution with the legal authority and resources to investigate and prosecute electoral crimes comprehensively.”
In response, security agencies pledged to remain neutral and professional in carrying out their duties, while acknowledging challenges in logistics and coordination.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Hon. Adebayo Balogun, assured that all issues discussed would be addressed in future electoral reforms, including plans for a 2025 Electoral Act to replace the current 2022 version.
Balogun emphasized, “The Nigerian people deserve an electoral process they can trust. We must ensure that our laws are not just strong on paper but are also effectively enforced.”
The Senate Chairman on Electoral Matters, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, noted that the meeting was a step towards strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system, with reforms reflecting lessons learned from past elections.
